An assignment to Algeria offers an opportunity to live and work
in the second largest country on the African continent; a country
known for its vast natural gas and oil reserves, its beautiful
architecture and landscapes, its rich heritage, and the independent
spirit of its people.

As the United States has maintained friendly relations with
Algeria throughout the political upheavals of recent years, private
foreign investment is welcomed by the Government of Algeria, and the
country continues to seek out stronger economic and political ties
with the United States. Algeria has been a stalwart, vocal supporter
of the global war on terrorism and its cooperation with the U.S.
continues to increase. The USG works closely with Algeria tops $4.5
billion, primarily in hydrocarbons, and the U.S. companies are
involved in key sectors, including banking/finance, tourism,
consumer goods, and services.

It is an exciting time to serve in Algeria. A time during which
American Embassy employees are present and engaged in the
redevelopment of Algerian civil society and can witness the
country's democratic development as it occurs.

The Host Country

Area, Geography, and Climate Last Updated: 7/6/2005 7:43 AM

AREA AND GEOGRAPHY:

Algeria, the second largest Arab/African country after Sudan, is
nearly one-third the size of the continental U.S.

It is situated opposite Majorca on the Mediterranean coast of
Africa about midway between Tangier and Tunis. Algeria borders six
countries (Morocco, Tunisia, Libya, Niger, Mali, Mauritania) plus
the Western Sahara region, which is under Moroccan administration,
making Algeria a geopolitically important location. By air, Algiers
is forty-five minutes from Barcelona.

Algeria's geography is one of contrast, with mountainous, fertile
terrain to the north and a great expanse of arid desert to the
south. Ninety percent of the population live on the fertile coastal
strip, the "Tell," that extends about 50 miles inland and stretches
about 950 miles from the Moroccan border in the west to the Tunisian
border in the east. Algiers, Oran, and Annaba, Algeria's most
important economic centers, are located in this area along the
coast.

South of this coastal plain rise the Tellian Atlas mountains,
including the beautifully rugged hills and mountains of the Kabylie
and, further beyond, the Aures. Behind the mountains lies the high
plateau, a semiarid rangeland where farmers cultivate grains in the
former breadbasket of the Roman empire. Beyond, about 200 miles
inland, are the dry Saharan Atlas mountains and then the vast Sahara
Desert, which comprises 90% of the country's land area.

The countries of the West African Sahel lie to Algeria's south.
Oil and gas fields are seemingly scattered everywhere across
Algeria's surface, with concentrations in Hassi R'Mel, Hassi
Messaoud, and near the border with Libya. Mines rich in mineral
wealth are located in the south and west. The tourist destinations
of Timimoun, Tamanrasset, and Djanet lie deep to the south.

From the sea, Algiers is a spectacular sight, rising sharply from
the port area and business district to the residential areas along
tree-covered hills. In sunlight, the white buildings of "Alger la
Blanche" gleam against the blue Mediterranean below and the green
pines above. The topography is challenging, with steep hills, high
hilltops, and small valleys dividing the city into its constituent
neighborhoods.

Architecturally, the city is European with a strong Mediterranean
flavor. The Casbah (or "Qasbah." meaning "the citadel") is the
congested quarter in the heart of the old city, containing most of
what remains of the Turkish city and palace of the 16th-18th
centuries.

Characteristic of modern Algiers are the many crowded apartment
buildings with their scenic views of the city and the sea. Among the
many mosques are a few dating from the 17th century and others that
were originally constructed as churches by the French. Traffic,
especially during morning, mid-day, and evening rush hours, is very
heavy and often frustrating, and is getting worse with the
availability of consumer auto credit.

CLIMATE:

Algiers' Mediterranean climate resembles California. The summer
is longer (May through October) and sometimes hotter than in
Washington, D.C., but generally less humid. Air pollution is
relatively low, but allergens can be a problem.- Coastal areas,
including Algiers, are hot in summer and chilly and rainy for
several months in winter. Inland mountain regions between the coast
and the desert have cooler weather; temperatures are below freezing
for long periods of winter. Spring and fall in the Tell (where the
average annual rainfall is 16 inches or more, making it suitable for
agriculture) are mild and enjoyable.

The Tell and the Sahara have opposite but equally extreme
climates. The Tell is very cold in winter and very hot in summer.
Daytime temperatures in the Sahara warm in winter and hot in late
spring, summer, and early fall). Nighttime in the Sahara is cold
year round.

Algiers has four distinct seasons, with temperature variations
ranging normally between 40-110 degrees Fahrenheit (or 4-43 degrees
Celsius). It tends to be extremely hot during the month of August,
and some winters can be cold and rainy. The rainy season spans about
five months, but water shortages and even severe droughts have hit
parts of the country in recent years. Western Algeria has seen
severe drought for several years. Algeria experienced its first
significant snowfall in decades in January 2005. In general,
however, the weather is quite pleasant.

Population Last Updated: 7/6/2005 7:44 AM

A majority of Algeria's population falls into two ethnics groups,
Arab and Berber, with additional populations of Turkish and West
African (in the Sahara) origin. Many Algerians are a mixture of Arab
and Berber. As of January 2005, the population is estimated at 32.6
million and is expected to increase to 33.2 million by January 2006.
The population is 99 % Muslim with a majority in the Sunni sect of
Islam. The remaining 1% of the population is Catholic and Jewish.
The principal languages are Arabic and French, although only Arabic
has status as official language. The Berber language, Tamazight,
achieved status as "national language" in 2004. French is still
widely used for official and business purposes despite the strong
program of Arabization. Few people speak English.

Algeria’s population growth rate in 2004 was 1.52%, down from
2.3% in 1996. At least 70% of the population is under age 30.
Although Algeria is a Muslim male-dominated society, women
participate actively in Algerian economic, political and social
life. The passage of the family-code revisions eased some of the
restrictions women faced with regard to marriage. Five Minister or
Minister-Delegate positions are held by women, and there are female
deputes in parliament. In addition, many women are appointed at key
posts in public institutions and organizations. The number of women
running their own businesses is also growing. The traditional veil
and “haïk,” a white wrap-around silk or nylon cover robe, tends to
be replaced by more modern and western clothes particularly in big
cities. Many women wear a “hidjab” (or djilbab), a practice stemming
from Middle East influence. Algeria's cultural opening to the rest
of the world makes it easier today for Americans to establish
relationships with Algerians.

Algiers, the capital of Algeria, is one of Africa's largest urban
areas. Originally planned for 750,000 people, it now teems with
almost three million inhabitants.

Approximately 1,000 Americans reside throughout Algeria and are
principally employed in the hydrocarbon sector, working primarily in
Algiers and Hassi Messaoud.

Public Institutions Last Updated: 7/6/2005 7:39 AM

Algeria’s parliament is bicameral consisting of the National
People’s Assembly with 389 members (changed from 380 after the 2002
elections) who are elected by popular vote to serve five-year terms,
and the Council of the Nation with 144 members, one-third of which
are appointed by the president and two-thirds indirectly elected by
the 48 wilayates (provinces) councils to represent their state.
Members of the Council serve six-year terms and the Constitution
requires half of the Council to be renewed every three years.
Algeria’s judicial system is based on its French colonial system and
has a Supreme Court located in Algiers; three courts of appeal;
special criminal courts for economic crimes against the state,
located in Algiers, Oran, and Constantine; justices of the peace;
and commercial courts in cities and townships throughout the
country. The Supreme Court serves as both the highest appellate
court and as the Council of State. Since 1992, when the terrorist
insurgency began, the powers of the military courts were expanded to
handle cases of terrorism and currently continue to handle such
cases. The president of the republic is popularly elected and can,
according to the Constitution, serve two five-year terms. He
appoints both the Prime Minister and the Cabinet of Ministers, and
may dissolve the legislature. Presidential elections were last held
on 8 April 2004 and are next due to be held in 2009. The
government’s security apparatus is composed of the Army, Air Force,
Navy, the national gendarmerie, the national police, communal guards
(a local police), and local self-defense forces. All of these
elements are involved in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism
operations. At the local level, decentralization efforts have been
most successful in the provincial administration of the 48 wilayates,
or provinces, each governed by a wali, or provincial governor, and
assisted by an elected executive council. A wilaya is comprised of
daïras, or counties. Each town has an elected municipal assembly
headed by a president. The government has increasingly given more
independence to the local governments since the 1989 and 1996
constitutional revisions.

Political Environment

After gaining independence in 1962, Algeria had a single-party
state dominated by the National Liberation Front (FLN) and supported
by the army and bureaucracy. By 1988, widespread dissatisfaction
with the austerity measures necessitated by moves toward a market
economy introduced by President Chadli Bendjedid, disillusionment
with the FLN grew and eventually resulted in rioting. A year later,
the Constitution was revised, opening up the political space to
other parties and making Algeria a multi-party republic. However,
the process towards democratization was suspended in 1992 when the
Army forced the President to resign, canceled the second round of
parliamentary elections which the Islamic Salvation Front (FIS) was
poised to win, installed a ruling 5-man High State Committee, and
banned the FIS, jailing many of its leaders. In February 2002, a
state of emergency was implemented. The same year the High State
Committee was installed and headed by President Mohamed Boudiaf, who
had returned to Algeria after a long period of exile. President
Boudiaf was assinated the same year in the city of Annaba.

The cancellation of the elections in 1992 escalated fighting
between the security forces and armed Islamit groups seeking to
overthrow the government and impose an Islamic state. The High State
Committee was dissolved in 1994 and the Army established the same
year a transition government, which was headed by a former general,
Liamine Zeroual. Zeroual was formally elected in November 1995 to a
5-year term as president. The presidential election was competitive.
Three opposition candidates had some access to state-controlled
television and radio and also received heavy coverage in the
independent press. Zeroual received 61 percent of the vote according
to government figures; losing candidates claimed that there were
instances of fraud, but did not contest the Zeroual’s victory. In
June 1997 Algeria held the first legislative elections since January
1992.

In May 1996, President Zeroual with the aid of legal opposition
parties began a review on how to develop a political system.
Zeroual’s ideas included amending the Constitution to define
acceptable political practices and establishing a second
parliamentary chamber called the Council of the Nation (a senate).
The President also insisted that the electoral and political party
laws be changed. In September, several important opposition
political parties joined with the President to sign a national
charter encompassing these ideas. In November the government
obtained approval through a flawed popular referendum to change the
Constitution, including the provision for a second parliamentary
chamber and greater presidential authority. The new Constitution
forbade political parties to be created on religious or regional
basis.

In 1998, President Zeroual announced that he was going to shorten
his term and organize presidential elections for the year to come.

Former Foreign Minister Abdelaziz Bouteflika became Algeria’s
seventh President in the presidential elections of 1999. Bouteflika
was elected with over 70 percent of the vote, after the six other
opposing candidates withdrew on the eve of the election citing
electoral fraud. One of Bouteflika’s first executive decisions was
the controversial “civil concord” that granted amnesty to thousands
of AIS (Islamic Salvation Army) members who “did not have blood on
their hands”. This amnesty returned some areas of Algeria to
relative peace. In May 2002, legislative and local elections took
place, won predominately by the FLN. At the National Popular
Assembly, the FLN won 199 seats out of the existing 386.

In May 2003, President Bouteflika dismissed Prime Minister Ali
Benflis and appointed Ahmed Ouyahia, Secretary General of the RND as
his successor. Elections for the Council of the Nation (senate) took
place in December 2003, giving the RND the majority. The Islamic
party Islah gained six (6) seats.

In April 2004, President Bouteflika was reelected for a five year
mandate with 84,99% of the vote .

The government’s human rights performance improved in 2004. The
level of violence between terrorists and security forces has
drastically decreased since its peak in 1994, and as a result the
incidence and severity of torture has declined. In 2004, no reports
of new “disappearances” implicating the security forces occurred.
The government also established an “Ad Hoc Mechanism” that functions
as an interface between the families of the disappeared and the
government. In March 2005, the Family Code was amended granting
additional civil rights to women. The legislature also passed in
January 2004 an electoral reform law to eliminate the questionable
practice of voting in the barracks by security forces.

Diplomatic relations with the U.S. were restored in 1974. While
relations were initially strained, they gradually improved due to
the role played in 1979 by then-President Bendjedid in negotiating
the release of American hostages in Iran. The official U.S. presence
was reduced during the civil conflict and terrorist attacks in the
1990s. Since then, an improved security environment, cooperation on
counter-terrorism, growing economic ties, and regional diplomacy
have contributed to improved relations. In July 2001, President
Bouteflika became the first Algerian president to visit the White
House since 1985. Secretary of State Colin Powell paid a visit to
Algeria in December 2003.

Algerian-European Union relations continue to increase, due to
economic interests. In 2001, the EU and Algeria signed a
comprehensive framework called the Association Agreement outlining
the elements for: a free trade area that uses WTO guidelines; social
and cultural cooperation; and a political/economic dialogue.
Although French relations have gone through periodic ups and downs,
a Friendship Treaty is due to be signed before the end of 2005. Ties
with France cover an extremely broad spectrum. Approximately 800,000
Algerians live and work in France. About 77 countries maintain
resident diplomatic missions in Algiers.

Gillo Pontecorvo. The Battle of Algiers. Produced and directed by
Gillo Pontecorvo. 120 min. 1966. Videocassette.

Commerce and Industry Last Updated: 7/6/2005 7:43 AM

After several years of slow growth and after 10 years of security
difficulties, the Algerian economy began to grow significantly in
2001. The engine of this growth remains the hydrocarbons sector,
which has benefited from high oil prices. Agriculture, another
growth sector, has benefited in many parts of the country from
expanded irrigation and higher rates of rainfall in recent years.
Construction and services are also sectors that are poised for
growth largely due to Algeria's pending WTO accession and the
Algerian government's $55 billion, 5-year infrastructure spending
plan announced in 2004. However, other sectors of the economy,
especially industry, have lagged behind. Development of heavy
industry and small and medium enterprises has been slow in the wake
of stabilization policies and structural reforms undertaken in 1994
and 1995 in conjunction with programs backed by the IMF and World
Bank. Algeria continues to struggle with the move from a centrally
planned to a market oriented economy. The government is seeking to
modernize Algeria’s financial system in a first phase by privatizing
three state-owned banks. Uncompetitive and unprofitable state
enterprises constituted the bulk of the industrial sector. In late
2004, the government announced the privatization of 1,200
state-owned enterprises that would be bought out by foreign firms or
liquidated completely. The state-owned petroleum sector’s output
represented about a quarter of national income and about 97 percent
of export earnings in 2004.

Algeria is a middle-income country whose annual per capita income
is about $2,620 (January 2005). Unemployment is still significant
and disproportionately affects young people. However, rates have
been continuously decreasing from 30% in 2000 to 17.7% in 2004. Many
people still make a living from street peddling or what is called in
Algeria “trabendo”, i.e. the underground economy, which accounts for
an unknown but large percentage of market activity.

Algeria, whose territory is one-third the size of the U.S., has
devoted significant resources to expanding and modernizing the
transport and telecommunications sectors since the 1970s, but with
mixed results due to poor management and resource allocation. Today
the government emphasizes infrastructure development with private
partners and foreign investors.

Communications

Telephones and Telecommunications Last Updated: 7/6/2005 7:46 AM

Local and international telephone service is generally adequate,
but it is sometimes difficult to get calls through to the U.S.
Although international calls are expensive (90 AD which is about
$1.23 per minute to the U.S.), direct dialing is available to most
countries, including the U.S. All residences on the embassy compound
are equipped with a touch-tone telephone, and all are extensions of
the main Embassy numbers and have access to the International Voice
Gateway (IVG). New arrivals may wish to bring a rechargeable,
pre-paid U.S. phone card for long distance phone calls. Calling card
calls to the U.S. made via the IVG do not incur international rates.

Wireless Service Last Updated: 5/3/2004 10:24 AM TELEPHONES AND
TELECOMMUNICATIONS:

Local and international telephone service is generally adequate,
but it is sometimes difficult to get calls through to the U.S.
Although international calls are expensive (90 AD which is about
$1.30 per minute to the U.S.), direct dialing is available to most
countries, including the U.S. All Embassy residences have phones,
and all are extensions of the main Embassy numbers. New arrivals may
wish to bring a rechargeable, pre-paid U.S. phone card.

Internet Last Updated: 7/6/2005 7:45 AM

All residences on the embassy compound are equipped with one
high-speed Internet connection that is provided free of charge. In
order to connect to the Internet, your computer must be equipped
with a network adapter that includes an RJ-45 jack.

Mail and Pouch Last Updated: 7/6/2005 7:46 AM

International airmail from the U.S. takes 7–12 days. Mail sent
via the Algerian postal service may take up to 30 days to reach the
U.S. Parcel post service is irregular because the U.S. does not have
a parcel agreement with Algeria. Once a parcel is received, lengthy
customs delays may be experienced, even for diplomatically
accredited individuals. The address for international mail is:

Employees use the Department of State pouch facilities to receive
most items. Postage is paid at applicable domestic rates. Packages
cannot weigh more than 50 pounds or be larger than 17x18x32. Insured
and registered personal items are not usually accepted for pouch
mail and are normally returned to the sender. Air pouch takes about
14 days. Mail for diplomatic pouch items should be addressed:

(Name) 6030 Algiers Place, Dulles, VA 20189-6030

Employees may send letters, film, and recording tapes from
Algiers. U.S. customs regulations prohibit sending packages via
pouch to the U.S. The only exceptions are goods received from
catalogs that are unsatisfactory and need to be returned to the
sender. Letter mail sent by pouch to addresses in the U.S. must
carry postage at the mailing rates from Washington, D.C. Postage
stamps are not available at post, so post recommends that all new
arrivals bring an adequate supply with them. Alternatively, stamps
may be purchased from the U.S. Postal Service website (www.usps.com)
and sent to post via unclassified pouch, using the aforementioned
6030 Algiers Place address. Mail pouches are dispatched two times a
week, and require 14 days to reach Washington, D.C.

Radio and TV Last Updated: 7/6/2005 7:45 AM

Medium-wave and long-wave radios can receive French language
programs from Radio Television Algerienne, Radio Diffusion Française,
Europe No. 1, Monte Carlo, the Voice of America (evenings only), the
BBC, and Moroccan-based Medi 1. Reception of foreign short-wave
broadcasts varies with the season, but BBC can be received clearly,
as can Armed Forces Radio and Television Service broadcasts.

Employees sent to post with a restricted HHE allowance are
provided with a multi-system TV and VCR. Algerian television uses
the PAL system, so U.S. (NTSC) receivers will not work in Algeria.

All of the residences on the embassy compound receive AFN TV
programming from the U.S. This programming is provided at no cost to
all residents. CNN, BBC World, Fox News Channel, and ESPN are among
the programming choices, in addition to a 24-hour movie channel and
a variety of offerings from NBC, ABC, CBS, and FOX.

Algerian television broadcasts between 7 a.m. and 1 a.m. daily.
Many movies and the late-night newscasts are in French. Arabic
programming (sometimes dubbed American films) is the general rule.

The newspapers, magazines, and books available on the local
economy are written in either French or Arabic. There are more than
30 daily French-and-Arabic-language daily newspapers that, together,
compose one of the most free print media corps in North Africa and
the Middle East. However, the professionalism and accountability of
journalists for the stories they report has recently caused strong
confrontations between the government and the Algerian print media.

The most prominent newspapers with the largest circulations are
available on-line and Post's Public Diplomacy Section provides a
daily media report and electronic news feed for Embassy employees
and contacts who request articles and summaries of local news in
English.

Residents hold magazine subscriptions from the U.S., as they
cannot be found in local newsstands.

The American community has a large collection of books, and the
DATT has a selection of movies on VHS videotapes.

Health and Medicine

Medical Facilities Last Updated: 7/3/2005 11:10 AM

The Embassy has a full-time local physician, and in addition,
Algiers has many adequate medical facilities. Several physicians and
dentists are used by American for routine care. Post has a special
agreement to use the Algerian Military Hospital for more complex
cases, such as emergencies. Local private clinics are used for minor
medical cases, orthopedic and dental care, etc...However few
Algerian doctors speak English. If a situation arises which requires
major surgery or intensive care, the Health Unit staff, in
consultation with the Regional Medical Officer (RMO) or the Regional
Psychiatrist, may decide to evacuate the patient to Algiers's
medevac point, London.

Adequate laboratory facilities are available in Algiers and are
used for routine tests. The Health Unit stocks some medicines and
supplies for minor illnesses. Employees using a long-term or special
medication should bring an adequate supply to post.

Although many medications are available on the local market and
are not expensive, the same brand or dosage may not be available.
Many pharmacies in the U.S. are willing to mail prescriptions to
post if arrangements are made in advance. To avoid differences in
diagnostic and treatment procedures, please have complete physical
and dental examinations in the U.S. before coming to Algiers.

Community Health Last Updated: 7/3/2005 11:10 AM

Public health standards in Algiers are improving and garbage is
collected everyday. During periods of drought, there is often a
break in the water supply from the city, but each embassy residence
has water reservoirs and a water purification system. City water is
treated with chlorine but does not contain fluoride. The Algerian
Health Ministry sponsors some preventive program for communicable
diseases, waterborne diseases, tuberculosis, etc..

Preventive Measures Last Updated: 7/3/2005 11:10 AM

The occurrence of rabies cases in Algeria is sporadic,
particularly in rural areas. However there are unforeseeable
outbreaks of the disease. Since rabies is a contagious disease, it
is strongly advised to have the three-inoculation anti-rabies series
before coming to post, or on arrival. Pets must also be vaccinated
against rabies. In the city, milk on the local market is controlled
and pasteurized. Long-conservation milk is also available and can be
kept unopened for a reasonable length of time without refrigeration.
The Algerian government controls and inspects meat and then stamps
it accordingly; however it should still be cooked thoroughly. Fresh
fruits and vegetables that will not be cooked should be soaked and
washed in chlorine water, and then rinsed in distilled water. Minor
diarrhea as a result in the change of diet is common for new
arrivals. Water samples are taken regularly from embassy residences
in order to maintain the quality of water; however, all residences
are provided with a water distiller. Bottled water is not expensive
and is readily available when traveling away from home or in
restaurants. A Typhoid vaccination is recommended before coming to
Algiers or immediately upon arrival.

American Embassy - Algiers

Post City Last Updated: 7/3/2005 9:52 AM

Algiers, capital of Algeria, is one of Africa’s largest urban
areas. Originally planned for 750,000 people, it now teems with
almost three million inhabitants. It is situated on the
Mediterranean coast of Africa about midway between Tangier and
Tunis, opposite Majorca.

From the sea, Algiers is a spectacular sight, rising sharply from
the port area and business district to the residential areas along
tree covered hills. In sunlight, the white buildings of “Alger la
Blanche” gleam against the blue Mediterranean below and the green
pines above.

Architecturally, the city is European with a strong Mediterranean
flavor. The Casbah, an ancient, congested quarter in the heart of
the city, contains most of what remains of the Turkish city of the
16th–18th centuries.

Characteristic of modern Algiers are the many crowded apartment
buildings with their scenic views of the city and the sea. Among the
many mosques are a few dating from the 17th century and others that
were originally constructed as churches by the French. Traffic,
especially during morning, mid-day, and evening rush hours, is very
heavy and often frustrating.

Algiers’ Mediterranean climate resembles California. The summer
is longer (May through October) and sometimes hotter than in
Washington, D.C., but less humid. Air pollution is relatively low.

Algiers has four distinct seasons, with temperature variations
ranging normally between 40–110 degrees Fahrenheit. It tends to be
extremely hot during the month of August, and some winters can be
cold and rainy. In general, however, the weather is quite pleasant,
but mold and mildew can be a real problem.

Despite its warm summer, Algiers has what is often described as a
“cold climate with a hot sun.” Winter temperatures rarely fall below
freezing. Cool weather generally begins in November and lasts into
March. The rainy season spans about five months.

Fewer than 500 Americans reside throughout Algeria, and are
principally employed in the hydrocarbon sector, working in central
and southern Algeria.

Security Last Updated: 7/3/2005 9:39 AM

PHYSICAL SECURITY: Embassy Algiers is currently located on three
adjacent compounds, separated by two-lane, public roads. A fourth
compound contains the DAO residence and is similarly separated from
the Chancery Compound. As of this writing in 2005, all US employees
live and work in these areas, generally referred to as "the
compound" or "the campus." In total, they cover approximately 16
acres and each is surrounded by a wall, fence or combination of the
two. The Embassy is embarking on a process of "normalization" that
is expected to progress step-by-step over an undetermined period, at
the end of which we hope to see a fully functioning Mission with
employees who have full freedom of movement within Algiers and, as
the situation permits, to areas outside the capital.

2. SECURITY IN GENERAL:

Current trend lines indicate that, while areas of the countryside
remain unsettled, the Government of Algeria is winning the war
against terrorism. Incidents of violence have dropped markedly
throughout the country, but the cities have benefited from the most
noticeable progress. In the capital of Algiers, although police and
security forces seem omnipresent, the policies that put them there
seem to be working as acts of violence are rare and remarkable. As
of this writing, American employees are permitted to travel downtown
(with some, few areas remaining off-limits) where they are dropped
off and allowed unescorted foot movement until they are picked up
and returned to the compound at a later time. The Government of
Algeria still officially maintains a State of Emergency. Currently,
travel outside the city of Algiers, both official and unofficial, is
possible (and encouraged), but additional security precautions are
followed.

3. PRESENT CLIMATE AND POTENTIAL DANGERS:

Relations between the Government of Algeria and the U.S. are
excellent. While we continue to work with the GoA to improve their
civil institutions, the GoA is receptive to suggestions and our
partnership is strong. Having fought and (apparently) won their own,
internal, "War of Terrorism," the Algerians also have much to teach
us and have proven willing to share their experiences and expertise.
There remain pockets of terrorism in the country and, of course, Al
Qaida and similar groups represent a global threat. In addition,
criminality seems to be a growing concern in the major cities of
Algeria, but is probably analogous to the threat found in almost any
major city in the world.

4. FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION:

Personally owned firearms and ammunition are not permitted at
this post.

The Post and Its Administration Last Updated: 7/3/2005 9:53 AM

Prior to Algerian independence, the U.S. was represented at
Algiers by a consul general. The Embassy was officially opened on
September 29, 1962. Following the break in diplomatic relations in
June 1967, the Embassy became the U.S. Interests Section of the
Swiss Embassy in Algeria. Diplomatic relations were reestablished on
November 12, 1974, .

The Embassy occupies two areas on opposite sides of Chemin Cheikh
Bachir El-lbrahimi. At No. 4 are the Chancery, containing the
Executive, Political, Economic, Marine Security Guard, Regional
Security Office, and Defense Attaché. The Annex, next to the
Chancery, houses Consular, Administrative, and Foreign Commercial
Services. The General Services Office and Public Affairs offices are
located across the street at No. 5 Chemin Cheikh Bachir El-lbrahimi.
Embassy telephone numbers are (0)21 69–12–55, 69–32–22, (0)21
69–14–25, and (0)21 69–11–86; Fax number is (0)21 69–39–79.

The Embassy has a small snack bar that sells conveniently with a
limited range of every day grocery products that are impossible to
find in the local market. A snack bar on the premises serves
breakfasts and lunches.

The regular workweek is Saturday through Wednesday, from 8 am to
5 pm, with a one-hour break for lunch.

Housing

Temporary Quarters Last Updated: 7/3/2005 9:54 AM

Permanently assigned embassy employees generally move directly to
the house or apartment that will be assigned to them for their tour.
There are 6 small TDY apartments located on the Oued Compound that
are used to house TDY personnel on an as needed basis or permanently
assigned personnel waiting to move in their quarters. In addition,
there are four hotels that the embassy has approved for other TDY
personnel.

Permanent Housing Last Updated: 6/28/2005 7:16 AM

The U.S. owns two residences in Algiers, the Ambassador's
residence and the DCM's home. The Ambassador's residence is one of
the city's finest houses, with extensive grounds and gardens,
including a tennis court and swimming pools. A fine example of
Moorish architecture, it was built in the 19th century and is
completely furnished. The first floor, well arranged for
representational functions, includes a spacious living room, formal
dinning room, modern kitchen equipped for large-scale food
preparation, a sitting room, inner courtyard, study, and TV room.
The second and third floors contain guest suites, several smaller
bedrooms, and modern baths. Laundry and storage facilities are in
the basement.

The DCM's home is a large, handsome Moorish building, the core of
which was built in the early 18th century. Modernized, the
courtyards, gardens, and finely designed interior retain the charm
of the classic Turkish style. The house has spacious facilities for
entertaining, modern kitchen and baths, and five bedrooms. This
residence is located on the Oued Compound, which will be the future
site of the NEC.

Due to the security situation, all permanent duty personnel are
housed on compound. The embassy owns the Oued and the EMR compounds
but lease two others that are adjacent to these and encircled by
security walls. A leased 24 unit apartment building called the
American Residential Complex (ARC) in the mainstay of the housing
pool and is located on the far west side of the Oued Compound. The
apartments are all 2 and 3 bedroom and range in size between 130 and
185 Sq. Meters. All four of these compounds have been integrated
into the embassy security system, so all employees are considered
"on compound".

Furnishings Last Updated: 7/3/2005 9:55 AM

All quarters are furnished with basic living room, dining room,
and bedroom furniture. A television and VCR are also provided to
those employees who were assigned to post with limited shipment.
Cable hook up to the Armed Forces Network (AFN) is provided to all.

Appliances include refrigerator, stove, freezer (if space
allows), microwave, washer, dryer and a potable water distiller.
Those with limited shipment allowances will be provided basic
cooking equipment and eating service for eight. GSO can help provide
additional place settings for larger functions. Electricity is 220
volts, 50 Hz. although some outlets in the Ambassador's and DCM's
residences are 110 volts, 50Hz. Ample transformers are provided for
each residence.

Surge protectors are recommended for electronic equipment that
may be sensitive to voltage fluctuations. Post recommends that all
electronic equipment purchased by the employees be dual voltage and
dual frequency.

Most residences are equipped with split-pack heat pumps that
supply both heating and cooling. The HVAC for the ARC is a centrally
located roof top unit that provides climate control for each of the
apartments individually.

Utilities and Equipment Last Updated: 7/3/2005 9:56 AM

WATER

Water in Algeria is generally good but because of the long
distance between the water plant and Algiers' population the
chlorination levels are non-existent which means that there is
nothing to combat bacteria should it be introduced to the system.
For this reason we do not recommend drinking the water directly from
the tap. All residences have potable water distillers and most
offices have access to either bottled water or distilled water for
drinking. The water from the tap is good for bathing and cooking
without problems. The embassy health unit draws quarterly samples
for bacteriological analysis and detection.

ELECTRICITY

Electricity in Algeria is supplied by the local authority at 220
Volts, 50 Hz. The power has a tendency to fluctuate and can cause
problems with electronic gear which may be sensitive to these
fluctuations. Most of the electronic equipment within the embassy is
connected to UPS devices, which provide temporary relief during
power outages. All the buildings, including housing, have emergency
generators which come on automatically grid power fails, however it
is important to know that there is a delay of service for up to 10
seconds while the transfer is in process.

We highly recommend you bring surge protector(s) with you. These
should be rated for incoming voltage of 220 Volts, 50 Hz, to protect
your personal equipment from local voltage fluctuations and surges.
All your electronic equipment, stereo, personal TV, VCR, DVD player,
computer and peripherals, should have a device preceding its power
supply. You should plan on having a UPS for your home computer as
well.

Food Last Updated: 7/3/2005 9:26 AM

Diplomatic personnel are authorized a 750 lb. consumables order
on 1 year assignments; if personnel extend, they are allowed an
additional 500 lb. shipment the following year. Staples can be
purchased locally, but prices are higher than in the U.S. Frequent
shortages occur, and the quality is often inferior to American
varieties. Fresh fruit and vegetables of good quality are plentiful
in and out of season. Markets carry high quality beef, chicken,
lamb, fish and shrimp, but all are expensive. Eggs, butter and
margarine are always available as are most dairy products such as
yogurt and cheeses. Pork products are not available. Shopping is
typically done in local markets in the Hydra area of Algiers or in
the downtown market called Marché Closel. The markets at Hydra,
although moderately well equipped, don't always carry what you need
and the stock may vary from week to week. Visiting several shops may
be necessary to acquire the items needed. The Closel market place is
an "old style" market in a large open building with many different
vendors selling a huge variety of fresh vegetables, meats, dairy
products and just about all the consumable products that one could
ask for.

The embassy provides limited shopping services through the
General Services Office duty driver. Some items such as bread,
juice, milk, soda and other simple products are available through
the Snack Bar.

The current climate in Algeria allows shopping in limited areas
of Algiers, but personnel is encouraged to go out. The "down town"
area of Algiers provides an ample variety of leather goods, jewelry,
ceramics, shoes and other clothing products. Prices are comparable
to prices in the U.S. but most believe that the product quality is
inferior to similar products in the same price range in the U.S.

Clothing Last Updated: 7/3/2005 9:28 AM

Algerians tend to dress more modestly than Americans, so a slight
modification in your wardrobe may be necessary. Usually, a wardrobe
adequate for Washington, D.C. is appropriate here. Visits to the
market for shopping are possible but the prices of quality items are
high. You should bring a full assortment of clothing and footwear,
including sports attire and bathing suits. Some dry cleaning is
available, but is undependable for fine fabrics; washable clothing
is preferable. Be sure to also include boots or an umbrella for the
rainy season. Clothing and shoes may also be ordered from various
catalogs if you find you have forgotten to bring necessary items. We
had a lot of snow this past winter and warm clothes were very much
appreciated.

Men Last Updated: 7/3/2005 9:29 AM

Because dry cleaning is unpredictable in quality and
availability, middleweight wash-and-wear suits are useful, with some
lightweight suits for the summer season. Woolen suits can be worn
from November to April. An all weather topcoat is also useful due to
the amount of rain during the winter months. Although the climate is
not considered "cold" by U.S. standards and it does not snow
normally, the air can be chilling and warm clothes are necessary,
especially for the mornings and evenings. Black tie is very rarely
worn however for occasions such as the Marine Ball one should be
considered in your shipment.

Shorts are not typically worn outside the compound by men or
women and will be viewed as unacceptable attire.

Women Last Updated: 7/6/2005 7:49 AM

Dress is less formal than in Washington, D.C. however suits,
skirts, long and full length dresses and sweaters are normal
everyday apparel for casual and workday wear.

Slacks and jeans can be worn off compound without problem. It is
typical for women to cover the shoulders and upper arms while out in
town. A long formal dress or gown for the Marine Corps Ball should
be part of your apparel and shipment. Shawls and sweaters are useful
for spring and fall evenings. Warmer cloths will be necessary for
the winter months especially for the mornings and evenings.

Entertaining among Embassy personnel is casual.

Shorts are not typically worn outside the compound by men or
women and will be viewed as unacceptable attire.

Children Last Updated: 7/3/2005 9:30 AM

Current regulations only allow children under 4 to accompany
their parents at Post.

Office Attire Last Updated: 7/6/2005 7:50 AM

Suits, skirts, long and full length dresses and sweaters are
normal everyday apparel for casual and workday wear. Because dry
cleaning is unpredictable in quality and availability, middleweight
wash-and-wear suits are useful, with some lightweight suits for the
summer season. Woolen suits can be worn from November to April. An
all weather topcoat is also useful due to the amount of rain during
the winter months.

Supplies and Services

Supplies Last Updated: 7/3/2005 9:32 AM

Very often permanent employees bring (as part of a consumables
shipment) an ample supply of items such as cosmetics, shampoo,
toothpaste, razors and blades, shaving cream, deodorant, home
medicines, sanitary supplies, bath soap, paper towels and napkins.
All of these items are widely available on the market, however if
there is a particular brand or type of supply that you prefer, you
may want to include it in your shipment.

Other items difficult to locate in Algiers include linens,
plastic ware, shower curtains, coat hangers, English books, playing
cards, etc.

Basic Services Last Updated: 7/3/2005 9:33 AM

Services available in Algiers, but not up to U.S. standards,
include tailoring, dressmaking, shoe repairs, radio, TV, and other
electrical appliance repair, dry cleaning, and barbers and beauty
salons.

Dry cleaning services are limited and some personnel have their
items delivered to a local hotel for the service because it simply
is not available in town. Because it is a hotel, the service is
expensive and takes longer than normal to have your items returned.

The post has a barber who comes to the compound to provide
haircuts twice per week. However, most of the women at post prefer
to have their haircut, permanents, etc., done on trips abroad.

Domestic Help Last Updated: 7/6/2005 7:51 AM

There are several RSO cleared, adequately trained maids available
to the personnel at post. Most embassy personnel employ workers for
cleaning and laundering either on a part-time basis or full time
basis depending on their needs. The domestic help will usually cook,
even if employed part time, if asked however the cuisine will be of
the local variety. Full time help is usually expected to cook and
will generally do so without question. The cost for help is
reasonable and usually equitable throughout the embassy staff since
most people use the same few workers.

Religious Activities Last Updated: 7/6/2005 7:51 AM

The predominant religion is Islam, but other religions are
respected. The Embassy periodically arranges interdenominational
church services, which are held at the Ambassador’s residence. The
British Embassy also hosts services from time to time.

Recreation and Social Life Last Updated: 7/6/2005 7:51 AM

Most entertainment is centered in the home. Participation in
other Embassy or Algerian official functions is rare, though most
Algerians are willing to visit employees at the Embassy compound.
U.S. employees coming to Algiers should bring their own
entertainment material (stereo, CD’s, cassettes). The Association
has a video club with over 300 cassettes, and many employees choose
to bring favorite videos with them to post. In addition, the Marines
receive recent movies (8mm) which can be shown on your home TV
through a video camera, and the DATT office receives VHS-format
tapes.

Tennis is a popular year-round outdoor sport in Algiers. Embassy
personnel can use the clay court on the Embassy compound. Bring all
tennis equipment and apparel to post.

Algiers’ outdoor swimming season is extended throughout the year
because the main community pool is heated. There is also a smaller
pool, located at the ARC apartment building, which is not and can be
used from May through September.

The compounds also contain a picnic area with BBQ pit, a
horseshoe pit, basketball court, fitness gym, and a volleyball
court, where matches are held weekly — often with participants from
other embassies. Jogging is possible on the Embassy’s two larger
compounds, but most surfaces are paved and some areas can be
slippery in the wet season. Cookouts and pool parties are frequently
held during summer months.

The Embassy grounds are extensive, with many areas of grass and
flowers. Space is available for employees who choose to plant
gardens.

The Marines have a bar facility with pool table, foosball table,
and darts. They host a happy hour once a week, and occasionally have
a movie night, showing late-run movies on a large screen.

Sports Last Updated: 7/6/2005 7:52 AM

Tennis is a popular year-round outdoor sport in Algiers. Embassy
personnel can use the clay court on the Embassy compound. Bring all
tennis equipment and apparel to post.

Algiers’ outdoor swimming season is extended throughout the year
because the main community pool is heated. There is also a smaller
pool, located at the ARC apartment building, which is not and can be
used from May through September.

Basketball is also a favorite activity for many of the employees.
It is generally quite easy to scare up a half court game or
sometimes even a full court game to occupy an afternoon.

Entertainment Last Updated: 7/3/2005 10:02 AM

For many, entertainment is centered within the on-compound
community peppered with the occasional dinner at a local restaurant.
However, Embassy personnel are often invited to attend events at
other embassies or Algerian official functions, depending on the
relations that they themselves establish with their contacts outside
of the Embassy. Consequently, as the Algerian cultural society and
commercial entertainment is slowly rejuvenating in the wake of the
"dark decade" of terrorism, employees should bring their own
entertaintment materials (stereo, CDs, cassettes). And while the DAO
receives recently released movies on VHS-formatted tapes which they
are willing to lend, only PAL video tapes are available on the local
economy. Furthermore, movies, CDs, and cassettes that are available
on the local economy have usually been pirated and the Mission would
discourage their purchase.

Social Activities

Among Americans Last Updated: 7/6/2005 7:52 AM The compounds also
contain a picnic area with BBQ pit, a horseshoe pit, basketball
court, gym, and a volleyball court. Jogging is possible on the
Embassy's two larger compounds, but most surfaces are paved and some
areas can be slippery in the wet season. Cookouts and pool parties
are frequently held during summer months.

The Marines have a bar facility with pool table and darts. They
host a happy hour once a week and a large party for the diplomatic
community of Algiers once a month.

Notes For Travelers

Getting to the Post Last Updated: 7/6/2005 7:52 AM

You must arrive at post on the chartered air-bridge flight from
Madrid. All correspondence regarding charter dates is classified,
and the precedence is “Confidential.” The charter flies an average
of three times monthly, and flights range between 7–14 days.

All correspondence concerning travel to/from Algiers should copy
Madrid, slugged for GSO – Flight Coordinator, as they are
responsible for making hotel and airline reservations for travelers.

Customs, Duties, and Passage

Customs and Duties Last Updated: 7/6/2005 7:53 AM

Because Algiers has exceptional HHE (500 lb.) and consumables
(750 lb.) allowances, all shipments are sent by air. All shipments
should be addressed as follows:

Algerian customs regulations technically require import permits
for all items termed luxurious, which includes stereos and the like.
GSO should be advised beforehand if you plan to ship such items so
that a “franchise” (import authorization) can be obtained from
customs. It is possible that the item may be held upon arrival at
the airport, and kept for several days before release.

All shipments, personal and official, enter Algeria under
diplomatic “franchise.” Clearing shipments through customs is a
process which often requires a month or more. To avoid delays and
speed settling in, we try to clear shipments in advance, but this is
not always possible. The shipper normally notifies the Embassy via
FAX of all weights, bill of lading numbers, airway bill numbers, and
the number of cases or containers; the original paperwork follows by
air mail. It is a good idea to tell your travel office to be sure
the airway bill is FAXed to GSO at 213269–17–82 as soon as it is
available.

Vehicles

No importation of POV’ is allowed at this time. Due to the
current security situation in Algeria, POV travel by American
personnel is not permitted. All travel, either official or
non-official, is performed in prior coordination with the RSO, in
armored vehicles, driven by Embassy drivers, with security escort.
Should the situation change, information on registering, licensing,
purchasing, and selling POV’s is available at post.

Passage Last Updated: 7/6/2005 7:53 AM

You must have a valid passport and Algerian visa to enter the
country; airport visas are not issued. The visa can be obtained
through diplomatic or consular missions of the Algerian Government.
If you are departing from Washington, D.C., you may obtain visas
there. If you are traveling from another post, you may obtain them
from the Algerian Embassy in that country, or arrange to obtain a
visa en route Algiers. Madrid is usually the most convenient
stopover for this purpose. Additionally, it is important that your
visa allow for multiple entries, and your passport should not show
travel to Israel.

Photographs are required for identity cards, visa extensions, and
visas to other countries. Each adult should have 20 passport-sized
pictures at time of arrival. Because of the security situation,
employees cannot go to local photographers to obtain photos.

The following inoculations should be kept up to date: complete
polio series, diphtheria, tetanus, typhoid, and gamma globulin.

Pets Last Updated: 7/6/2005 7:53 AM

There is no restriction on the importation of pets. However,
given the restrictions under which employees in Algiers serve,
personnel may wish to leave their pets with family or friends.
Please note that, in the unlikely event of an evacuation, pets must
be left behind.

If you do wish to bring a pet, however, the pet must travel as
accompanied baggage. Pets must not travel as unaccompanied air
baggage, because of routine delays of several days or weeks of air
cargo at European transit points. Please notify the Embassy well in
advance if you are bringing a pet. Owners must have documents
indicating that the pet has been vaccinated against rabies and that
the vaccination is at least 30 days old, but not more than 1 year. A
health certificate not more than 14 days old is required.

Firearms and Ammunition Last Updated: 7/6/2005 7:55 AM

Personnally owned firearms and ammunition are not permitted at
this post.

The Algerian unit of currency is the dinar (DA). Approximately 72
dinars = $1 (January 2004). The dinar is divided into hundredths,
which in popular usage are called francs. Algerian currency notes
may not be exported or imported.

Algeria uses the metric system of weights and measures. The
Gregorian calendar is used for most purposes, and Friday is the day
of rest in Algeria.

Accommodation exchange is only available through the Embassy
cashier. Maintain a U.S. checking account for accommodation exchange
and be sure to bring an adequate supply of checks to post. It can
take up to three weeks to receive mail through the pouch, therefore
it is suggested to sign up for automatic or online billing to avoid
late fees.

* The dates of religious holidays are based on the lunar calendar
and are celebrated about 10 days earlier each year.

Adapted from material published by the
U.S. Department of State.
While some of the information is specific to U.S. missions abroad, the
post report provides a good overview of general living conditions in the
host country for diplomats from all nations.